Thousands of revelers are expected to turn out for Boston’s annual J’ouvert and Caribbean Carnival Parade, bringing a day of free music, food and celebration to Dorchester and Roxbury.

J’ouvert means “dawn” or “daybreak,” and ushers in a day’s worth of celebrations that honor Caribbean culture. Participants often wear headpieces of horns and feathers as well as vibrant masks, and cover themselves with paint and oil as they dance and sing to Caribbean music. Food vendors will also offer up an array of traditional Caribbean fare.

J’ouvert, however, usually follows a night of partying.

The Caribbean American Carnival Association of Boston (CACAB) puts on the annual Trinidad style festival, and has done so since its founding in 1973. Admission to the family-friendly Jouvert and Caribbean Carnival Parade is free and open to the public.